ARCHBALD, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — As communities across Lackawanna County mark National Night Out with celebrations throughout August and September, Archbald held its event Wednesday. The event brought residents together with local police officers, firefighters and other emergency responders at A.C. Field.
Families took part in games, bicycle raffles and giveaways, including bicycle helmets. Vendors, local businesses and community organizations also participated, while attendees were encouraged to bring nonperishable food donations for the Christ the King Food Pantry.
The event featured a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter, the Blakely Police K-9, the Lackawanna County SWAT team, police drone demonstrations and a live Taser demonstration. Visitors could also see fire and rescue units, tour a SWAT truck and ambulance, and learn about equipment first responders use in their daily work.
Tim Trently, chief of police for Archbald Borough, said the event gave officers and residents an opportunity to interact in a relaxed setting and build familiarity beyond emergency situations.
“We want people to come out. We want to shake their hands, say hello and see their faces. We want them to see who we are because, whatever may happen, they’ll know what we’re all about. We’re all human. We’re all here to have a good time. We have our own families, too, so we want to see their families as well,” said Trently.
Trently said the event, held for more than a decade, had one of its strongest turnouts. He credited local sponsors and businesses for supporting it, with money raised helping cover future event costs and assist community members in need.
National Night Out events will continue across Lackawanna County, including celebrations in Throop on Aug. 6, Jessup on Aug. 8, Dunmore on Aug. 11, Olyphant on Aug. 29 and Taylor on Sept. 19.